By CLTure
August 18, 2025
Monday, August 18
Celebrate the spirit of jazz at The Bill Hanna Legacy Jazz Session, every Monday night at Petra’s. A tribute to the late, great Bill Hanna, who was widely known as the godfather of Charlotte jazz. The weekly event brings together some of the city’s best musicians for a night of improvisational performances.
Tuesday, August 19
Bid Whist at Blume Studios (6:00 p.m.)
Tickets: Free
QCity Metro presents the Bid Whist Tournament, a game historically played by Black railway workers to bond during long trips, which has since grown into a cherished tradition. Inspired by the production Immediate Family, this tournament is an invitation to celebrate and preserve the game’s cultural legacy. Whether you’re competing or simply enjoying the atmosphere, you’ll receive a complimentary drink ticket, experience live DJ sets, enjoy surprise appearances, and even benefit from on-site tutoring for newcomers eager to learn. Winners will take home prizes, including ticket packages to Immediate Family, Monopoly Lifesized, and more.
Citizen Soldier, 10 Years, and Adelitas Way at The Underground (7:00 p.m.)
Tickets: $33.99 plus
Monolopy Lifesized: Travel Edition at Blume Studios (May 6 – September 21)
Tickets: $20 plus
A one-of-a-kind interactive gaming experience, Monopoly Lifesized: Travel Edition transforms the iconic board game into a 70-minute adventure at Blume Studios. Players navigate a giant Monopoly board featuring classic spaces like Boardwalk, Park Place, the railroads, and utilities. Along the way, you’ll solve puzzles, crack codes, collect properties, and try to outsmart opponents — all before time runs out. A guide will lead you through physical challenges and immersive rooms as you buy property, charge rent, and try to break out of jail in a race to win the game.
Philip Bowen with opener Julia DiGrazia at The Evening Muse (7:30 p.m.)
Tickets: $20.38
Wednesday, August 20
1CLT Film Festival at Independent Picture House (August 20-24)
Tickets: Free
1CLT Film Festival returns, showcasing local voices and diverse storytelling uniting 13 Charlotte-area film organizations under one banner. The festival offers audiences the chance to explore work from regional, national, and international filmmakers, featuring a wide range of storytelling styles — from shorts and documentaries to international features — all celebrating the power of film. Launched in 2020 as a virtual collaboration between Charlotte’s film organizations, 1CLT has since grown into one of the city’s exciting new film events. The festival is completely free to attend, but donations are encouraged to support local nonprofits dedicated to arts education and community development. You can find the complete list of participating film organizations and screenings on the Independent Picture House website.
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Jake Scott at The Underground (7:00 p.m.)
Tickets: $30.80 plus
Jazz Jam with Blackhawk Quintet at Eighty Eights (8:00 p.m.)
Tickets: $10.00
Immediate Family at Booth Playhouse (July 29-August 31)
Tickets: $27.98 plus
Blumenthal Arts presents the regional premiere of Immediate Family, a bold and timely new play written by Hamilton alum Paul Oakley Stovall and directed by Tony Award winner Phylicia Rashad. Set on Chicago’s South Side, Immediate Family follows the Bryant family as they reunite for a wedding — only to have their carefully curated image disrupted when the middle son unexpectedly brings his Swedish boyfriend. What unfolds is a funny, heartfelt, and unflinchingly honest portrait of a modern family navigating love, loyalty, and generational change. Described as Modern Family meets Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner, the play tackles themes of race, sexuality, identity, and tradition through the lens of an African American family grappling with the evolving values of the 21st century.
Pleasure House, Groove Skeletons, and Ryan Lockhart & The Night Brigade at Snug Harbor (9:00 p.m.)
Tickets: $12.00
Neo Soul Night with Howard McNair at Middle C Jazz (7:00 p.m.)
Tickets: $33.05 plus
Uncle Lazer at The Comedy Zone (7:00 p.m.)
Tickets: $30.76 plus
Magoo with openers Charlotte Bluegrass Allstars at Visulite Theatre (8:00 p.m.)
Tickets: $15 plus
Worst Party Ever, Camp Trash, Ogbert The Nerd, and Rocks For Lizards at The Milestone (8:00 p.m.)
Tickets: $14.47 plus
The Hamiltones with opener Tinkah at VAPA Center (7:00 p.m.)
Tickets: $42.03
Grammy-nominated R&B/soul group The Hamiltones will perform a special show at the VAPA Center on Wednesday night. The trio, consisting of 2E, Tony Lelo, and J. Vito, got their start as backup singers for Charlotte’s Anthony Hamilton. They released their debut EP, Watch The Ton3s, in 2019, followed by their latest album, 1964, in 2020.
Thursday, August 21
Mo Betta Thursdays at Bo’s at NoDa (8:00 p.m.)
Tickets: $15
Erykah Badu and The Alchemist at The Fillmore (8:00 p.m.)
Tickets: $174 plus (Gametime: $147 plus)
Neo-soul icon Erykah Badu and legendary hip-hop producer The Alchemist are bringing their collaborative project Abi & Alan to Charlotte this week ahead of the release of their new joint album, set for August 29. Badu, a multiple Grammy winner and neo-soul pioneer, is known for hits like “On & On,” “Tyrone,” and “Bag Lady,” and was recently honored with the Icon Award at the 2025 Billboard Women in Music ceremony. This project marks her first studio release since 2010’s New Amerykah Part Two. The Alchemist, one of hip-hop’s most acclaimed producers, has shaped the genre’s sound since the ’90s through his work with Mobb Deep, Nas, Eminem, and more. He has also collaborated with Freddie Gibbs, Boldy James, Action Bronson, Larry June, and 2 Chainz, among others. Charlotte will be one of 10 cities to preview the album Abi & Alan before its official release.
Electricidad at Arts Factory (August 15-31)
Tickets: $30 plus
Batman at Carolina Theatre (7:00 p.m.)
Tickets: $16.05
Drunk Journaling with Good Postage at Camp North End (6:00 p.m.)
Tickets: Free
Chromatic Roots at Arts+ (August 1-31)
Tickets: $48 plus
Arts+, the Charlotte-based nonprofit providing music and visual arts education through private lessons, group classes, camps, and community programs, presents Chromatic Roots — a multi-sensory experience featuring over 30 visual artists, five soundscape artists, and a two-person media team, all coming together to showcase the power of local creativity. Follow the story of a missing janitor as you explore vibrant biomes, collect stamps, and unlock clues along the way, with performances, musical acts, and artist-led workshops offered on select dates.
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The Dirty Grass Players at Whitewater Center (7:00 p.m.)
Tickets: Free (parking: $12)
Sydney Castillo (Comedian) at The Comedy Club at Duckworth’s (August 21-23)
Tickets: $25.00
Carolina Panthers vs. Pittsburgh Steelers at Bank of America Stadium (7:00 p.m.)
Tickets: $17.85 plus
After a less-than-stellar game against the Houston Texans, the Panthers return home for their final preseason matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers. A frequent preseason opponent from 2010 to 2019, the two teams will face off with mostly non-starters, giving coaches the opportunity to further evaluate the roster ahead of the 53-man cutdown date on August 26.
Michael Cera Palin with openers Newgrounds Death Rugby, Kerosene Heights, and Blankstate at Amos’ Southend (7:30 p.m.)
Tickets: $25.35 plus
Emily June with opener Dog Days at Petra’s (8:00 p.m.)
Tickets: $9.98
Charlotte indie folk singer-songwriter Emily June will perform at Petra’s this week following the release of her debut album, Notes for When I Lose Myself, in February. June, who is currently pursuing a master’s degree at Berklee College of Music, released her first project, Something About Decay, in 2023 and regularly shares music on her social media accounts, steadily growing her following.
Great Wide Nothing, Once Below Joy, Mindvac, and Island Earth at The Milestone (8:00 p.m.)
Tickets: $14.47 plus
Lua Flora, Charles Walker, and Jesse James DeConto (The Pinkerton Raid) at Visulite Theatre (8:00 p.m.)
Tickets: $12 plus
Friday, August 22
Keep Pounding High School Classic at Bank of America Stadium (4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.)
Tickets: $11.91
The third annual 2025 Keep Pounding Classic returns to Bank of America Stadium on Friday night with a doubleheader featuring four of the region’s top high school programs. The 4:00 p.m. opener pits the Hough Huskies (Cornelius) against the South Pointe Stallions (Rock Hill), while the 8:00 p.m. matchup showcases reigning state champs Grimsley Whirlies (Greensboro) versus the West Charlotte Lions. Hough comes off a 12-2 season led by QB Trey Blakeney and cornerback Samari Matthews, facing South Pointe’s talented roster, including four-star safety J’Zavien Currence. Grimsley is coming off a perfect 16-0 record and a 4A state championship with top-ranked QB Faizon Brandon, while West Charlotte returns 21 starters, including standout seniors KD Cotton, Donte Nicholson, Sam Johnson, and Michael Griffin Jr. Part of a multi-year partnership between the Panthers and Belk, the Keep Pounding Classic has quickly become a must-see showcase of high school football talent from North and South Carolina.
The Red Clay Strays and Wilder Woods at Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre (7:00 p.m.)
Tickets: $101 plus
Wim Tapley & The Cannons at Whitewater Center (7:00 p.m.)
Tickets: Free (parking: $12)
Jazz Room Presents: Melissa Morgan Sings Billie Holiday at Stage Door Theater (August 22-23)
Tickets: $37.90 plus
Philadelphia-based jazz vocalist Melissa Morgan returns to the Jazz Room this weekend for a tribute to Billie Holiday. A classically trained pianist and vocalist, Morgan was a semi-finalist in the Thelonious Monk International Jazz Competition in 2004. She released her debut album, Until I Met You, in 2009, and her latest, Days Like This, in 2016. The Jazz Room is a concert series that offers a cozy atmosphere reminiscent of classic jazz venues, featuring a diverse lineup of local, regional, and nationally renowned artists at the Stage Door Theater.
Travis Tritt at Ovens Auditorium (8:00 p.m.)
Tickets: $85.86 plus
Ben Rector at The Amp Ballantyne (7:00 p.m.)
Tickets: $55 plus
Charlotte Asian Film Festival at 1CLT Film Festival at Independent Picture House (5:00 p.m.)
Tickets: Free
The Charlotte Asian Film Festival presents free screenings of three compelling short films: Threads, Teb Chaw (Land), and The Market. Threads, directed and produced by Quyên Nguyễn-Lê, offers a portrait of the indigenous Montagnard Dega refugee community in North Carolina, exploring intergenerational storytelling and the aftermath of the Vietnam War. Teb Chaw (Land), directed by Joua Lee Grande, highlights Hmong refugee farmers transforming local foodways in Minnesota, home to one of the largest Hmong diaspora communities. The Market, directed by Oanh-Nhi Nguyễn and produced by Quyên Nguyễn-Lê, follows the Southeast Asian Market in Philadelphia’s FDR Park, founded by refugees to create a space of nourishment and belonging. Oanh-Nhi Nguyễn is an award-winning filmmaker and activist whose work centers on Asian women and girls, diaspora experiences, and intergenerational stories. A preview of the Charlotte Asian Film Festival, which will take place on Saturday, September 13 at The Dubois Center at UNC Charlotte Center City, celebrating Asian films and filmmakers.
The Harvey Cummings Project and Dre Brannon Duo at Camp North End (6:00 p.m.)
Tickets: Free
Underground Springhouse with opener Ran Albright at The Music Yard (6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.)
Tickets: $21.54
Mad Monster Expo at Embassy Suites (August 22-24)
Tickets: $35 plus
The Mad Monster Expo returns to Concord this weekend for a three-day event, giving fans the chance to meet iconic horror, sci-fi, and pop culture stars, attend panels, and shop from a curated selection of vendors. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet legendary figures from film and television, including Pam Grier (Foxy Brown), David Arquette (Scream), Linda Blair (The Exorcist), Corey Feldman (The Lost Boys), Lou Ferrigno (The Incredible Hulk), Edward Furlong (Terminator 2), and The Honky Tonk Man (WWE Hall of Famer). In addition to celebrity meet-and-greets, the expo will feature Q&A panels with stars and creators, professional photo ops and autograph sessions, Scaraoke (scary karaoke), costume contests with cash prizes, and vendors offering unique horror and pop culture merchandise.
Jason Aldean with openers Nate Smith, RaeLynn, and Dee Jay Silver at PNC Music Pavilion (7:30 p.m.)
Tickets: $96 plus (Gametime: $88 plus)
Cassettiquette with opener Housecat! at The Evening Muse (7:30 p.m.)
Tickets: $20.38
Jazz Flautist Ragan Whiteside at Middle C Jazz (6:30 p.m. + 8:45 p.m.)
Tickets: $37.25 plus
The Pink Stones, Carolina Down Boys, and Kit McKay at Snug Harbor (10:00 p.m.)
Tickets: $14.00
ATLiens at Blackbox Theater (10:00 p.m.)
Tickets: $30 plus
Saturday, August 23
Colors Worldwide Presents R&B Only Live at The Fillmore (9:00 p.m.)
Tickets: $42 plus
Lynsea, The Kindest People, and Willingdon at Petra’s (8:00 p.m.)
Tickets: $9.98
Charlotte indie pop artist Lynsea performs at Petra’s this week following the release of her new single, “Last Call,” in May, which comes after her debut album, Hormones, released in November 2024. She’ll be joined by Johnson City, Tennessee’s The Kindest People and Charlotte indie rockers Willingdon.
Tacos N Taps Festival at Symphony Park (12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.)
Tickets: $54.31 plus
Falling In Reverse, Wage War, Tech N9ne, and Sleep Theory at PNC Music Pavilion (6:15 p.m.)
Tickets: $40.50 plus
Charlotte 49ers Movie Night (Lilo & Stitch) at Jerry Richardson Stadium (6:30 p.m.)
Tickets: Free
Toad the Wet Sprocket, KT Tunsall, and Sixpence None The Richer at The Amp Ballantyne (7:00 p.m.)
Tickets: $60 plus
Sophia, Camisole, and Recess Party at Snug Harbor (10:00 p.m.)
Tickets: $14.00
Winston-Salem alternative rock band Sophia, fresh off their new EP Wandering, headlines Snug Harbor. They’ll be joined by Charlotte’s Camisole, who released their self-titled debut EP in May, and Athens, Georgia, indie rockers Recess Party.
Beres Hammond & Friends at Ovens Auditorium (8:00 p.m.)
Tickets: $127 plus
Sultan + Shepard at The Music Yard (6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.)
Tickets: $45.85
Hustle Souls at VisArt Video (7:30 p.m.)
Tickets: $25.00
Gable Price and Friends, Stephen Stanley, and Ethan Nathaniel at Neighborhood Theatre (8:00 p.m.)
Tickets: $25.88
Heather McMahan (Comedian) at Knight Theater (8:00 p.m.)
Tickets: $62.21 plus
Comedian and podcaster Heather McMahan brings her Bamboozled Tour to the Knight Theater this weekend. Her two hit stand-up specials, Son I Never Had (Netflix) and Breadwinner (Hulu), showcase her relatable and sometimes raunchy comedy, blending personal storytelling with observational humor drawn from her life experiences, including dating, relationships, family dynamics, and everyday struggles. McMahan also hosts the Absolutely Knot podcast, has worked as a red carpet correspondent and host for E!, and has sold out major venues such as Radio City Music Hall and Atlanta’s Historic Fox Theatre.
Sunday, August 24
Charlotte Vintage Market at NoDa Brewing (12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.)
Tickets: Free
Boileryard Brunch at Camp North End (12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.)
Tickets: Free
Boileryard Brunch returns to Camp North End with specialty drinks crafted by Black Moth Bars, Canteen, and Hip Hop Smoothies, along with food from Gravity Pizza, a fish fry, and empanadas. Hosted by Dammit Wesley and Jaleta P., the monthly outdoor party will feature music curated by DJs Smylee and Brim, plus live painting and fun photo opportunities.
The Round Table Game Show Live at The Fillmore (8:00 p.m.)
Tickets: $40 plus
Ejspeaks (Comedian) at The Comedy Zone (6:00 p.m.)
Tickets: $36.36 plus
Charlotte FC vs. New York Red Bulls at Bank of America Stadium (7:00 p.m.)
Tickets: $32 plus
Charlotte FC rides a six-game MLS winning streak into Sunday Night Soccer against the New York Red Bulls at Bank of America Stadium. Idan Toklomati recorded his fourth consecutive goal contribution of the season in the 1-0 victory over Real Salt Lake. Goalkeeper Kristijan Kahlina and defender Tim Ream earned MLS Team of the Matchday honors, with Kahlina securing his third straight league clean sheet with seven saves, while Ream helped anchor the backline. Charlotte sits seventh in the Eastern Conference with 44 points and will look to extend their winning streak to seven in front of the home crowd.
Susto with openers The Wildmans and Judy Blank at Neighborhood Theatre (7:00 p.m.)
Tickets: $25.88
Buff Dillard Quartet at Eighty Eights (8:00 p.m.)
Tickets: $10.00
Maysa Leak at Middle C Jazz (6:15 p.m. + 8:45 p.m.)
Tickets: $82.65 plus
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